Quick take: Bengals-Steelers

In Brief

On NFL GameDay Morning
Bengals WR Chad Ochocinco sits down with Michael Irvin in an interview on NFL GameDay Morning, which airs Sunday starting at 9 a.m. ET.

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» Last meeting: A last-minute touchdown pass from Carson Palmer to Andre Caldwell gave the Bengalsa thrilling 23-20 victory in Week 3.
» Streaks: The Steelers have won five of the past six meetings and own a 48-30 overall series edge, including the playoffs.
» Last week: Pittsburgh took control late in a 28-10 win at Denver. ... Cincinnati completed a sweep of Baltimore with a 17-7 victory.

Keep your eye on ...

Troy Polamalu's presence: Pittsburgh was without its Pro Bowl safety in the first meeting between these teams and he was missed. He gives the Steelers a dynamic playmaker at the back end of their defense and he will make life more difficult for Palmer.

Rashard Mendenhall's emergence: Another significant difference for the Steelers since the last time they played the Bengals is Mendenhall's increased role. He has become the club's featured back and since he took over the starting job in Week 4, the Steelers are 5-0.

Cedric Benson's steady play: Cincinnati's reborn runner is enjoying his best season as a pro by far. He is second in the league in rushing and has exploited some of the better run defenses in the league -- including Pittsburgh's in Week 3. If he is able to get going, that will help Cincinnati keep Pittsburgh's attacking defense off balance.

Did you know?

The Bengals have not beaten the Steelers two consecutive times since 1998. ... When Cincinnati has at least 25 rushing attempts in a game under Marvin Lewis, it is 26-1. ... Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is undefeated against the AFC North at home (7-0). ... When Polamalu has an interception, the Steelers are 16-3.